Distracted Driving: When a Pedestrian is Hit by a Car

Here’s a not-so-fun fact: in 2011, a total of 4,432 pedestrians were killed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association. That’s equivalent to a pedestrian being fatally hit by a car about every fourth day in every state. Sadly, many times distracted driving and driver carelessness is the reason some pedestrians are hit by a car.

Common Driver Distractions

There are numerous types of distractions that can direct the driver’s focus off the road. Unfortunately, not all of these distractions have laws pertaining to them and there are many that can’t be restricted by law. This is where personal responsibility plays a role, but no matter how responsible someone is, sometimes accidents are still inevitable.

Here’s a list of common driver distractions that can result in an accident:

smoking;

eating/drinking;

reading/writing;

adjusting radio controls;

talking/texting on a cell phone;

taking care of personal hygiene;

holding or reaching for objects in vehicle;

external objects; and

other passengers.

Driving while distracted can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Both impair your ability to take in your surroundings and to respond quickly in an emergency or unexpected situation.

How has the accident affected your loved one?

Because a pedestrian is so vulnerable, injuries and resultant pain can last for months, years and sometimes the rest of the victim’s lifetime.

Here is a list of serious injuries a pedestrian may be facing after he or she is hit by a car:

Unfortunately, most, if not all, of these injuries require major medical treatment, such as surgery and rehabilitation. In turn, high medical bills accumulate along with pain, discomfort, work absences, and time away from family and friend outings.

Injury Recovery

Is there a solution or quicker way to heal to get your life back? There is no magic pill, genie, or spell to cure these types of injuries but if you’re active with rehabilitation and follow doctor’s orders, the better your chances of healing at a sufficient rate.

Depending on your injury, you may never feel “normal” or like yourself again. You may not be able to stand or sit as long as you could before. You may not have the flexibility or energy you once had. But you can at least have peace of mind, knowing you have legal options to collect compensation to cover your medical bills, and pain and suffering.

Punitive damages may also be available, which rewards you compensation but also acts as a punishment toward the negligent driver responsible for the pedestrian accident. When you seek these damages, it doesn’t just benefit the victim. It also may save a life down the road.

Call an Attorney for Help Pursuing Justice and Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, the Law Offices of Julie Johnson are here to help you. We will answer your questions and guide you through the process of filing a claim. You deserve an attorney who understands the laws surrounding your case. Call us today for a free consultation to learn what we can do for you.

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